New Evidence In JonBenet Ramsey Investigation, Father Optimistic

Boulder Police Reject “Cold Case” Label

Nearly three decades after the murder of six-year-old JonBenét Ramsey, Boulder police say the case remains active and should not be considered cold.

In an annual statement marking the anniversary of JonBenét’s death, Boulder Police Chief Steve Redfearn emphasized that new information continues to surface and that investigators are actively pursuing leads.

“The killing of JonBenét was an unspeakable crime, and this tragedy has never left our hearts,” Redfearn said. “We are committed to following up on every lead and continuing to work with DNA experts and law enforcement partners until this case is solved.”

The Murder That Shocked the Nation

JonBenét Ramsey was reported missing from her family’s home in the 700 block of 15th Street on December 26, 1996. Hours later, her body was discovered inside the residence. An autopsy later determined that she died by strangulation.

The case quickly became one of the most infamous unsolved murders in American history, drawing intense media attention and sparking decades of debate, speculation, and controversy.

Thousands of Tips and a Nationwide Investigation

According to Boulder Police, detectives have followed up on more than 21,016 tips, letters, and emails related to the case. Investigators have traveled to 19 states and interviewed or spoken with more than 1,000 individuals in connection with the investigation.

Police say every credible lead has been reviewed, and the case has remained open since 1996.

DNA Technology Continues to Drive the Case Forward

The Boulder Police Department says the investigation has been under continuous review with federal, state, and local partners, including the FBI, the Boulder County District Attorney’s Office, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, and several outside forensic laboratories.

Advances in DNA science remain central to the effort.

“This past year, our detectives conducted new interviews, re-interviewed individuals based on tips, and tested or re-tested evidence using modern forensic techniques,” Redfearn said. “Technology evolves, and so does our ability to investigate this case.”

Police Urge New Witnesses to Come Forward

Authorities continue to encourage anyone with information—no matter how small—to contact investigators.

“It is never too late for people with knowledge of this terrible crime to come forward,” Redfearn said.

John Ramsey Expresses Renewed Optimism

JonBenét’s father, John Ramsey, said he is cautiously optimistic about the direction of the investigation under new leadership.

Speaking on NewsNation’s Banfield, Ramsey praised Chief Redfearn’s involvement and transparency.

“The key has been new leadership,” Ramsey said. “For 25 or 26 years, it wasn’t moving forward. I’ve met with Chief Redfearn three or four times now. I’m impressed with him. I think he’s sincere and honest.”

Anyone with any information to go to BouldersMostWanted@bouldercolorado.gov or call the Boulder Police tipline at 303-441-1974.